(MENAFN) Former United States House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has weighed in on the debate surrounding President Joe Biden's mental acuity, asserting that it is reasonable to question his fitness for office following his widely criticized debate performance against former President Donald Trump. The 81-year-old Biden's struggles during the news agency faceoff, where he appeared frail and had difficulty articulating coherent thoughts, led to widespread commentary from American journalists and pundits, many of whom declared Trump the winner.

Pelosi's comments on MSNBC underscored the seriousness with which some in the Democratic establishment view Biden's performance. She acknowledged that doubts about Biden's mental state are legitimate, posing the question of whether his recent difficulties were a momentary lapse or indicative of a broader condition. Pelosi, herself 84 years old and one of Congress's oldest members, emphasized the importance of subjecting both Biden and Trump to rigorous assessments of their mental acuity and overall health.

Despite her longstanding support for Biden, Pelosi's remarks reflect growing concerns within Democratic circles. While she reaffirmed her commitment to Biden's reelection alongside Vice President Kamala Harris, Pelosi's acknowledgment of the debate fallout suggests internal deliberations about the party's electoral strategy.

Pelosi's stance contrasts with a lone Democratic lawmaker's explicit call for Biden to suspend his campaign, highlighting divergent opinions within the party. Texas Representative Lloyd Doggett's recent statement urging Biden to consider withdrawing further underscores the gravity of the situation within Democratic ranks as the presidential campaign intensifies.

MENAFN03072024000045015687ID1108403025